Survivor Shares Harrowing Escape from Coercive Control on This Morning

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  House and Home on Sun, Mar 22nd, 2026 by Daily Mail
      Locale: UNITED KINGDOM

London, UK - March 23rd, 2026 - A brave survivor, identified only as Hannah, shared her harrowing story of escaping a years-long abusive relationship on This Morning today, shedding light on the insidious nature of coercive control. Her testimony underscores a growing awareness of emotional and psychological abuse as equally damaging - and often preceding - physical violence. While headlines frequently focus on physical abuse, experts are increasingly emphasizing the importance of recognizing and addressing coercive control, a pattern of behaviour designed to strip away a victim's independence, identity, and ultimately, their freedom.

Hannah's experience, detailing isolation from loved ones, constant manipulation, and threats of self-harm if she attempted to leave, is tragically common. She described a slow erosion of her self-worth, a process where her opinions were dismissed, her perceptions distorted, and she was made to feel 'crazy' and entirely dependent on her abuser. This 'gaslighting' - a form of psychological manipulation where someone is made to question their own sanity - is a hallmark of coercive control, and a key tactic used to maintain power and dominance.

Coercive control differs significantly from isolated incidents of domestic violence. It's not about singular acts of aggression, but rather a sustained campaign of domination. This can manifest in numerous ways, including isolating the victim from friends and family, monitoring their movements, controlling their finances, dictating what they wear, and constantly criticizing or belittling them. The aim isn't just to inflict harm, but to create a system of control where the victim is utterly reliant on the abuser for validation and survival.

Dr. Simone Oliver, a psychologist specializing in abuse, explains, "Coercive control is about power and domination. It's a deliberate strategy to dismantle a person's sense of self and make them completely subservient. The psychological impact can be devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, PTSD, and even suicidal ideation."

What makes coercive control particularly dangerous is its subtlety. Unlike physical abuse, there may be no visible injuries. This can make it difficult for outsiders to recognize the abuse and for victims to articulate what's happening. Often, the abuser presents a charming facade to the outside world, further complicating the situation and making it harder for the victim to seek help.

The fear of leaving is also immense. As Hannah revealed, she lived in constant terror of her abuser carrying out threats, particularly those relating to the safety of her children. This fear is compounded by the psychological conditioning the abuser has instilled, leading the victim to believe they are incapable of surviving on their own.

A Growing Legal Response

Recognizing the severity of coercive control, legal frameworks are evolving to address this form of abuse. In 2015, the UK became one of the first countries to criminalize coercive control within intimate relationships. Similar legislation is being considered and implemented in various jurisdictions worldwide. These laws aim to hold abusers accountable for the overall pattern of controlling behaviour, rather than focusing solely on individual incidents of violence.

However, legal changes alone aren't enough. Raising public awareness and providing specialized support services for survivors are crucial. Organizations dedicated to domestic abuse are increasingly focusing on training professionals - including police, healthcare workers, and social services - to recognize the signs of coercive control.

Seeking Help & Breaking the Cycle

If you or someone you know is experiencing coercive control, resources are available. The National Domestic Abuse Helpline (https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/) offers confidential support and advice. Refuge (https://www.refuge.org.uk/) provides a range of services, including emergency accommodation, counselling, and legal support. Remember, you are not alone, and help is available. Breaking free from coercive control is a challenging journey, but it is possible to reclaim your life and rebuild your sense of self. Hannah's courageous decision to share her story serves as a powerful reminder that speaking out can empower others and contribute to a future where coercive control is no longer tolerated.